A specimen of Crusader thornless hawthorn in a landscape

Crusader® Hawthorn

Few other trees combine durability and beauty like Crusader hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis) does. This unique small tree bears hundreds of clusters of white flowers in spring, and they turn into red fruits that resembles clusters of tiny apples. Come autumn, it graces the landscape with a display of colorful foliage. And did we mention – unlike conventional hawthorns, it’s thornless! No worries about those big, pointy thorns injuring you, your pets, or scaring your children. Extremely glossy foliage and unique tan-silver bark provides contrast and grab attention.

This species of hawthorn is native to North America, and shows incredible tolerance to the most challenging landscape conditions. Wet soil, dry soil, high or low pH, air pollution, compaction – Crusader hawthorn takes it all in stride. This disease-resistant selection is a great choice for your home landscape, as well as for street trees and commercial plantings like parking lots.

Crusader thornless hawthorn is part of the Proven Winners^® ColorChoice^® Trees program.

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Additional information

Dimensions	10 × 10 ft
Botanical Name	Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis 'Cruzam'
Zone	3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Foliage Color	Green
Height	15'
Width/Spread	12-15'
Exposure	Full Sun
Soil	Acidic, Any, Average, Dry, Moist, Well-drained, Wet
Bloom Time	Spring
Uses	Cottage gardens, Foundations, Fruit Production, Shade tree, Specimen, Woodland gardens
Features	Attracts pollinators, Clay soil, Disease resistant, Fall interest, Foliage interest, Landscape plant, Native, Tree
Breeder	Jim Zampini
Blooms On	Old wood

SKU: 19920 Categories: Hawthorn, Tall, Tree, Wide

Plant Care

Light: Full sun (6+ hrs/day)

Soil: Any average soil will do – Crusader hawthorn can tolerate wet and dry soils, and is not fussy about soil pH.

Water: Average water needs, drought tolerant once established.

Fertilizing: If desired, fertilize in early spring using a granular (not liquid) fertilizer formulated for woody plants, like a rose or tree fertilizer. One application a year is sufficient in most areas. However, if you are starting with a very small plant, you may wish to fertilize monthly through late July to encourage more rapid growth.

Pruning: Little needed. You may selectively prune out branches to achieve a desired shape and habit if you wish, but regular pruning is neither required nor recommended.